GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

92

Meiomi 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, California ($18)

A luscious array of pear blossoms, vanilla meringue, Key lime and chamomile. Mid-palate notes of ripe pineapple help deliver the fine acid structure to the fore.

95

Merriam 2022 Merlot, Windacre Estate, Russian River Valley ($56)

The seduction begins with a sensuous bouquet, teeming with candied red fruit, plum, rose petals and mint leaves. Aged for 18 months in 30% new French Oak, the velvety sensations are enveloping and the supple tannins prickle more than they bite. This wine is charm incarnate.

92

Merriam 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley ($30)

Thai lime, jasmine, and meringue materialize on the nose with fleeting wisps of spun honey. This Sauvignon Blanc has a satiny softness and the palate surges with lemon verbena, white tea leaves and green apple alongside a nimble acidity.

97

Nickel & Nickel 2023 Branding Iron Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, Napa Valley ($135)

Built to last, tannins are svelte and architecturally sound. Graphite and black tea add grip and verve, ascending in depth and flavor with each sip.

97

Nickel & Nickel 2023 C.C. Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford, Napa Valley ($135)

A creamy lava flow of spiced pomegranate, red tea, and vanilla-coated cherries. Distinctively fresh, with white pepper and hyacinth, its focused acidity brings it to a high energy finish.

99

Nickel & Nickel 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, John C. Sullenger Vineyard, Oakville, Napa Valley ($135)

Dried lavender and mulberry are fine contenders for attention. This fragrant and well-tempered red shows restraint amidst its broad, generous demeanor. Licorice, leather, soy sauce, and purple plum weave through a mineral core to a most elegant finish.

98

Nickel & Nickel 2023 De Carle Block Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford, Napa Valley ($135)

Sinewy and tense, its dusty raspberry-skin tannins melding with a rich, mineral core. Engaged with dried lavender, jasmine and a hint of iron, the wine boasts a juicy nature, revealing black cherry washing over spiced cedar.

93

Nozzole 2022 Chianti Classico Riserva, Tuscany, Italy ($29)

Showcasing hints of sun-soaked leather, violets, paprika and a touch of char, you are instantly transported to the hills of Tuscany. The mouthfeel is elegant with a radiant warmth and sinewy tannins throughout. The signature tart cherry note accompanies a round, pleasing finish.